Summer Family Fun List

Summer can be kind of a bummer for working moms. Our kids are out of school, the weather outside is gorgeous, and yet we’re stuck at work. Well guess what? With a little creativity and planning, you, too, can enjoy this season of sprinklers and sidewalk chalk with your favorite lil’ people.

Here are my 3 ideas for working moms to enjoy summer with your children:

1. Adjust your work schedule.

Because the days are longer, your window of “outside” playtime is extended. If you can get to work a little bit earlier (while your kids sleep in, or your spouse takes them to daycare), you can leave a little the office earlier and have a nice, long afternoon/evening with your kids. You can take them to the pool, have a picnic dinner at the park, or just blow bubbles in the yard.

2. Do a lunchtime picnic or afternoon ice-cream break.

If you work close enough to where your kids spend their days, you might be able to swing a lunch hour or coffee break to hang with them. I’m planning to ask our sitter to bring them to a park that’s close to my office, and we’ll meet up for a “fast food” picnic and playground time. They’ll think it’s neat to see Mom in the middle of a work day, and you’ll appreciate the kid time, too.

3. Take a real family vacation.

Whether you have the budget for a beach-bound getaway or a low-cost staycation, I highly recommend setting aside at least a few days of time off for some kind of family vacation. It can be so relaxing and energizing to be together, exploring new places and just enjoying each other’s company—without the hectic chaos of daily home life. If you do end up going for the staycation option, avoid the temptation of “getting stuff done around the house” and prioritize fun family activities as much as you can.